Sample Day Trips

Discover the Coastal Charm of Southeastern Massachusetts

Take Me To The Beach!

Discover the unparalleled beauty of the New England coastline in Southeastern Massachusetts, a region celebrated for its diversity and natural charm. From the bustling fishing docks of New Bedford to the tranquil sea-gazing spots scattered along our shores, SE Mass is a coastal paradise waiting to be explored.

Embark on your seaside adventure in the enchanting town of Fairhaven, starting at Ft. Phoenix. Be captivated by the breathtaking views of Buzzards Bay and the charming peninsulas extending into the ocean from Fairhaven and New Bedford. Unwind on the sandy shores, observing the fishing vessels and leisure boats as they navigate through the hurricane barrier safeguarding New Bedford harbor. Discover more about this historically rich town at Fairhaven Tours.  

Next, venture to Clarks Point in New Bedford, a locale celebrated for its beaches on both the east and west flanks. Here, the historical pre-Civil War Ft. Taber stands proudly at the peninsula’s apex. Pack a picnic to savor amidst the refreshing sea breezes while watching the elegant dance of sailboats on the water. Learn more by visiting New Bedford Parks, Recreation & Beaches.

Conclude your day at the town of Westport’s crown jewel, Horseneck Beach State Reservation. This pristine sanctuary features a campground and a two-mile-long sandy beach, consistently hailed as one of the nation’s most beautiful beaches. Horseneck offers an unspoiled paradise for beach aficionados. Swim, lounge, and revel in the stunning oceanic splendor. For additional details, visit Horseneck Beach State Reservation. 

Immerse yourself in the coastal splendor of Southeastern Massachusetts, where every visit becomes a memorable journey along the New England shoreline.

  • New Bedford’s Working Waterfront: Witness the vibrant activity of a working fishing port in New Bedford, where the maritime industry thrives alongside historical charm.
  • Padanaram Harbor: Set sail from the exquisite Padanaram Harbor, a haven for sailing and boating enthusiasts offering both sail and power boat adventures.
  • Dock-to-Dine Experiences: Savor the freshest seafood directly from the dock in New Bedford, Fairhaven, Westport, and Fall River, where dining meets panoramic ocean views.
  • Unspoiled Beaches and Shorelines: Wander along untouched beaches and rugged coastlines, offering serene retreats and unspoiled vistas.
  • New Bedford Harbor Walk: Stroll the Harbor Walk beside the world’s longest hurricane barrier in New Bedford, where spectacular views create unforgettable moments.
southern-massachusetts

Honoring Those Who Served

 Discover Fall River’s Rich Military Heritage: A Tribute to Those Who Served

The City of Fall River, while nicknamed the Spindle City due to its many textile mills, is a treasure trove of 20th-century military history.  Battleship Cove, the nation’s largest in-water collection of naval vessels, features the awe-inspiring World War II battleship Massachusetts, the destroyer Joseph P. Kennedy (named for the brother of President John F. Kennedy), the submarine Lionfish, two PT boats, and numerous other watercrafts.

Explore the heart of Fall River, Massachusetts, a city renowned for its pivotal role in textile manufacturing and a significant contributor to 20th-century military history.

Embrace the legacy of courage and sacrifice in Fall River, a city that proudly honors its military history and those who served.

Heritage State Park and Veterans Memorial

Fall River’s Heritage State Park features a beautiful riverfront walk from Battleship Cove for more than a mile to Veterans Memorial Bicentennial Park where remarkable military monuments await you. Wander along the scenic riverfront from Battleship Cove to the Veterans Memorial Bicentennial Park. Stand in awe before the replicas of the Iwo Jima Memorial and Vietnam Memorial Wall, and pay homage to the heroes of the Korean War, Gulf War, and War in Afghanistan. Discover more at Viva Fall River.

Battleship Cove Adventures

Step aboard the historic World War II battleship USS Massachusetts, explore the decks of the destroyer Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr., dive into the submarine Lionfish, and experience the power of two PT boats along with a fleet of naval vessels. Learn more at Battleship Cove.

 

Explore New Bedford – Call me Ishmael

The Heart of America’s Whaling Heritage

The undisputed capital of the whaling industry in the United States is New Bedford, the Whaling City. And nothing shows that history like the New Bedford Whaling Museum, a sprawling world-class museum that chronicles the history of the whaling industry and displays the incredible riches derived from it. With paintings, furniture, scrimshaw, and artifacts from around the world, learn about the remarkable stories of whalers who set forth from New Bedford, brought on crew from West Africa, sailed around to the Pacific, and even up to Alaska for years at a time in pursuit of the majestic animals we now protect. Climb aboard the Lagoda, a half-size replica of a whaling vessel, and imagine the lives of those brave seamen.

New Bedford Whaling Museum

Immerse yourself in the world of whalers at this renowned museum, where the stories of daring voyages to the Pacific and Alaska come to life. Discover the global connections of New Bedford’s whaling fleet, and step aboard the Lagoda, the largest whaling ship model, for a glimpse into life at sea. Plan your visit to the New Bedford Whaling Museum.

 

New Bedford’s National Historical Park

The New Bedford Whaling Museum sits along the cobblestone streets of one of the nation’s only urban National Parks. The National Park Service operates a Visitors Center where you can learn more about “The City that Lit the World” where Herman Melville penned Moby Dick and embark on a short walk through Downtown New Bedford to the Customs House, the Seaman’s Bethel where families prayed for the safe return of their loved ones. All of this incredible beauty is likely to make you hungry and local restaurants abound.  Explore more at National Park Service.

 

Dine and Discover Downtown

After soaking in the history, enjoy the culinary delights and vibrant culture of Downtown New Bedford. From local eateries to charming galleries and shops, there’s plenty to explore. Visit Downtown New Bedford, Inc. for the latest on dining, shopping, and entertainment.

 

 

Discover Bristol County

A Blend of Inland Beauty, History, Music and Speed

Embark on an enriching journey through Bristol County, home to historical landmarks, cultural venues, and exhilarating entertainment. Whether you’re a history buff, music enthusiast, or thrill-seeker, Bristol County has something special for you. There is so much to do in Bristol County, you might want to spend a day visiting Taunton Green or the wonderful Old Colony History Museum in Taunton.

Old Colony History Museum in Taunton

Step back in time at one of New England’s oldest historical societies, founded in 1853. Explore a vast collection of artifacts and delve into genealogical archives to uncover ancestral stories. Plan your visit to the Old Colony History Museum.

Taunton Green Historic District

Wander through the historic heart of Taunton, where the 19th-century commercial district meets the serene beauty of Taunton Green, established in the 1740s and recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985.  Learn More

 

Attleboro Area Industrial Museum

A short drive to Attleboro brings you to what was the jewelry capital of the world and the impressive Attleboro Area Industrial Museum. Discover the craftsmanship that once crowned Attleboro as the jewelry capital of the world. This museum showcases the extraordinary skills of past centuries’ workers. Learn more at the Attleboro Area Industrial Museum.

Xfinity Center in Mansfield

Mansfield boasts one of the great indoor/outdoor music venues in the country, the Xfinity Center, a performance shell venue with lawn seating and top national acts throughout the spring, summer, and fall. . Visit Live Nation for schedules and information.

 

Seekonk Speedway

Feel the adrenaline rush at the largest regional attraction for racing enthusiasts. Enjoy a packed calendar of NASCAR events and thrill shows from April through September. Check out Seekonk Speedway for event details.